Argan tree

The argan tree or arganie (Argania spinosa) is the only plant species of the genus Argania, which belongs to the sapotaceae family.

The argan tree is native to Morocco and Algeria and has been cultivated there for many centuries for oil extraction. The argan tree grows at altitudes of up to 1,300 metres. It is a lignifying plant of medium size, and reaches a height of 12m.

The berry fruits of the argan tree ripen from June or July of the next year in a so-called perennial cycle, have bitter pulp and contain an almond-sized kernel with 2 or 3 seeds from which oil is extracted. Argan oil is used as edible oil and as a basic cosmetic.

1. Chafchaouni-Moussaoui I et al (2013) Triterpenoids from Argania spinosa: 20 years of research. Nat Prod Commun 8:43-46.
2. Jirabundansuk P et al.(2014) Comparative trial of moisturizer containing spent grain wax, Butyrospermum parkii extract, Argania spinosa kernel oil vs. 1% hydrocortisone cream in the treatment of childhood atopic dermatitis. J Med Assoc Thai 97:820-826.
3. Klika D et al(2014) Amino phenolics from the fruit of the argan tree Argania spinosa (Skeels L.). Z Natural history 69(9-10):363-367.